Industry Milestones and Developments: June 17, 2019
The gaming industry saw several notable developments on June 17, 2019, with major announcements from key players shaping up for what could be a significant year ahead in both console and PC game markets.
Ubisoft Announces New IP at E3 Press Conference
In a surprising move during its E3 press conference, Ubisoft unveiled "Skull & Bones," a new IP that has been under development for several years. The announcement highlighted the company's shift towards more diverse gaming experiences, moving beyond its traditional franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. "Skull & Bones" is an action-adventure game set in a pirate-themed world, offering players opportunities to explore vast oceans, engage in naval battles, and discover hidden treasures.
Microsoft Reveals Pricing for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Later that day, Microsoft detailed the pricing strategy for its newly introduced service, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The subscription model, aimed at providing gamers with access to a robust library of titles across various platforms including PC and console, was priced starting from $14.99 per month in the United States. This move by Microsoft aims to compete directly with services like Netflix but in the gaming space, offering an extensive selection of games and additional perks such as Xbox Live Gold membership.
Activision Blizzard Reports Strong Q2 Financials
In a financial report released on June 17, Activision Blizzard revealed impressive quarterly earnings driven largely by the performance of its mobile titles. The company highlighted that "Candy Crush Saga" and "Clash Royale," which have seen steady engagement, contributed significantly to its revenue growth. This success in the mobile gaming market suggests a broader trend towards casual and mobile games gaining traction among traditional console gamers.
Controversy Surrounds EA’s New Microtransaction Policy
Electronic Arts (EA) faced backlash when it announced new microtransaction policies for some of its upcoming titles, including "Star Wars: Squadrons." Critics argue that the changes may lead to an unfair advantage for players willing to spend more money. EA defended its decision by stating that these options would enhance player experience and customization but acknowledged the need to ensure a fair gaming environment.
Outlook
The events of June 17, 2019, signal a diverse direction in the industry with companies like Ubisoft betting on new IPs for growth while Microsoft and EA focus on service-based revenue models. The success or failure of these strategies will likely shape how game development and distribution evolve over the next few years.